On this short, family-friendly hike we visit the emerald green ponds at Zion Canyon.
From the trailhead at the Zion Lodge we hike through the forest to the Lower and Middle Emerald Pools. Leachate ensures that the area is supplied with water throughout the year. In this area, rare animal and plant species have found their habitat. Among them is an algae that give the pools their characteristic emerald green color. Hence the name of the Emerald Pools. Throughout the trek, we enjoy beautiful views into Zion Canyon and the Emerald Pools. Because of the easy accessibility of this trail, it is one of the most popular trails in the Park and also suitable for families.
The Zion Lodge is accessible only by shuttle bus. Only in the winter private vehicles are allowed. If the car park at the Zion Canyon visitor Center is fully occupied, additional parking and a bus-shuttle stop are located in the town of Springdale.
Sure-footedness and slip-resistance, no fear of heights
Bring a lot of fluids and sunscreen. There is not much shade.
Tips, hints and links
Zion Lodge (1309 m)
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We take the shuttle bus from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to the Zion Lodge. We then cross the street and the river, so that we reach the trailhead. There we turn right and follow the course of the Lower Emerald Pools Trail through the woods to the Lower Emerald Pool. Afterwards we continue our tour on the marked Middle Emerald Pools Trail that eventually takes us back to the bridge over Virgin River. On the other side of the street we find the Zion Lodge, where we take the shuttle bus back to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Take Highway I15 to Exit 16, continue on State Route 9 via La Verkin in Zion National Park, then continue to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Then take the shuttle to the Zion Lodge.